Barney Allam, who founded Allam Property Group in 1991, has passed away.
The popular Penrith business identity has been behind the building of dozens of master-planned communities in New South Wales and Victoria.
Barney Allam has been part of the Penrith community since 1972 and was highly respected in the property industry.
His company has been a long-time partner of the Penrith Panthers, and the Chairman’s Lounge at Penrith Stadium is currently sponsored by the business.
He was honoured with the Order of Australia Medal (OAM) in 2004 for his service to the community, particularly through Wesley Mission, and to the residential building industry.
It is understood he passed away on Sunday after a short illness. As per his wishes, he was buried on Monday with a celebration of life to be scheduled in the future.
There’s been extensive tributes.
Lou Zivanovic, who shared a passion for the Penrith Panthers with Barney, said it was a tremendous loss.
“Barney meant a lot of things to a lot of people, to me was inspirational in the Panthers community, the Penrith community, the business community and in life, simply legendary,” he said.
Panthers Group CEO Brian Fletcher said news of his passing was a shock.
“You wouldn’t find a better sponsor or a kinder person in your life,” Fletcher said.
“He had a wonderful association with Greg Alexander and John Farragher and I was only having dinner with him about three weeks ago.
“He helped so many people. He was a wonderful person and a wonderful contributor to Panthers.
“There’s just so many people affected by it.”
Former State Penrith MP Stuart Ayres expressed his sadness at the news.
“Penrith has lost one of its finest in Barney Allam,” Ayres said.
“A great character who built an amazing business creating places people call home.
“He absolutely loved our region and his passion for its success poured out of him.
“Today is a little bit darker for losing him but for those who knew him our lives are a lot brighter for knowing him.”
In a statement on social media, Allam Property Group said its founder “will never be forgotten”.
“His absence leaves a profound void in our hearts and the organisation,” the statement said.
“Barney’s legacy will continue to inspire and guide us as we move forward. His vision for Allam Homes will remain the foundation upon which we build our future.
“We are committed to honouring his memory by upholding the standards of excellence and integrity that he set.
“Barney Allam will be dearly missed by the entire Allam team. His leadership, wisdom, and kindness have left an indelible mark on all of us. As we mourn his loss, we also celebrate his remarkable life and the enduring legacy he leaves behind.”
Troy Dodds
Troy Dodds is the Weekender's Managing Editor and Breaking News Reporter. He has more than 20 years experience as a journalist, working with some of Australia's leading media organisations. In 2023, he was named Editor of the Year at the Mumbrella Publish Awards.